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Shown here is a sneak peek photo of Ingersoll Rand’s new IQV12 series of compact cordless power tools. These new tools are designed for auto technicians and mechanics, and are said to be the smallest in their class, which should allow for easier access in narrow spaces.

The new lineup will include 3 impact tools, 2 ratchets, a drill/driver, a screwdriver, and an LED worklight.

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These tools will be powered by a long-lasting 12V 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery packs, which feature a positive-lock that *clicks* to let users know when the battery is properly secured.

The new IR IQV12 tools will be introduced at the 2013 SEMA show in about two weeks.

First Impression

These tools all look a little large and bulky, which has me wondering why users would consider buying into IR’s new cordless tool platform when brands like Milwaukee offer time-tested performance and more mature 12V tool designs.

It is hard to be excited over a new line of cordless power tools when one of IR’s main selling points is how the batteries have a positive battery lock that emits an audible click. Every single 12V Max li-ion cordless power tool that I can think of offer this “feature.”

C’mon IR, tell us about the maximum torque ratings, build quality, performance, durability – something! But no, the product announcement talks about how the newly designed battery emits a click when attached to a tool.

But, I suppose this was only a sneak peek, so details are bound to be scarce.

On a positive note, I like how the impact tools and ratchet appear to have metal gear housings. Even if this does not make the tools any more durable than today’s many plastic-bodied tools in practice, the designs mirror the look of pro-grade impact wrenches. This helps the tools fit in better in automotive shop settings, compared to 12V tools designed for construction settings. Maybe this helps the tools clean up better as well.

13 Comments

The drills only have 205 in lbs torque which is pretty low. They must be pretty small for those numbers. The impacts have very good torque and are the same power no matter whether they are a driver or wrench.

I think its hard to design a tool like a ratchet to use a slide pack. It’s just not easy to work out the ergonomics when your constrained by a square shape every battery ratchet with square packs has a similar design and funky ergonomics.

I just don’t understand the angled and inline battery packs on these and some other brands of tools. It makes so much sense to put the battery on so that the tool can stand up when not in use………its akin to putting a steering wheel on the headliner……….makes no sense and I cant explain why, but its wrong.

I actually saw these at a local garage the other day. I was impressed by the compact size. The technician was getting in all kinds of tight spaces. I’m in the process of converting all my air to cordless. Ingersoll Rand always seems to get it right!

If they truly are smallest for their class (and are actually useful) they will find a quick market amongst auto techs. I already know home mechanics that own multiple impact wrenches- small ones for tight places and big ones for big jobs.

PS Stuart, while it may not be your job to hide the sins of marketers, it may not be in your own best interest to make fun of their personal communications with you, either. You might consider sticking to pointing out only their public blunders, which should still be a rich source of commentary fodder.

I haven’t had any private communications with anyone at IR. Their goof was public, but you’re right, pointing out the blunder is like pointing at someone in the street whose friend just pulled their pants down. The goof sullied my mood about these tools, but it looks like they have since fixed it.